A Chinese-born woman has been formally charged in connection with the audacious theft of six gold nuggets, valued at approximately 1.5 million euros ($1.75 million), from the Museum of Natural History in Paris last month, according to French prosecutors. The suspect was apprehended in Barcelona while attempting to dispose of melted gold and is currently in pre-trial detention. The museum, renowned for its extensive collections of stuffed animals and bones, houses a mineralogy gallery where the stolen gold was displayed. Investigators discovered an angle-grinder and a blowtorch at the crime scene, suggesting the use of sophisticated tools. Reports indicate that the museum’s alarm and surveillance systems were disabled by a cyberattack, which the thieves allegedly exploited. A museum spokesperson revealed to Le Figaro that the perpetrators were highly experienced and well-informed, taking advantage of a security vulnerability overlooked in the 2024 audit. The break-in was discovered by cleaners arriving before dawn at the museum, which is affiliated with Sorbonne University and located near the Jardin des Plantes in central Paris. The suspect was arrested by Spanish police on September 30 under a European Arrest Warrant and extradited to France the same day. Authorities found her in possession of around one kilogram of melted gold, and investigations are ongoing. It is believed she was preparing to flee to China. Among the stolen items was a 5kg gold nugget originally from Australia, valued at approximately €585,000 at current gold prices. Museum director Emmanuel Skoulios described the thieves as an ‘extremely professional team’ with precise knowledge of their target and access to professional equipment. This incident follows a separate high-profile heist at the Louvre, where thieves stole priceless French crown jewels in a meticulously planned operation lasting less than eight minutes. Experts speculate that the stolen items may be dismantled and sold for a fraction of their value. Dutch art detective Arthur Brand noted that the perpetrators are likely experienced criminals who have carried out similar burglaries in the past. Recent months have seen at least four French museums targeted by thieves, raising concerns about the security of cultural institutions in the country.
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China’s Harbin enters heating season
As winter approaches, Harbin, the northernmost provincial capital of China, officially commenced its heating season on Monday, October 20, 2025. This year, residents are experiencing a significant improvement in heating services, thanks to a comprehensive upgrade of the city’s heating infrastructure. The enhancements aim to ensure a more efficient and reliable supply of warmth during the harsh winter months. Local authorities have been proactive in inspecting and maintaining heating facilities, with staff members diligently overseeing operations at heating service companies. These efforts reflect the city’s commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents, particularly in the face of extreme weather conditions. The upgraded system not only promises better performance but also aligns with broader environmental goals by optimizing energy usage. As temperatures drop, the improved heating services are expected to provide much-needed comfort and safety to Harbin’s population.
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Tornado hits Paris suburbs leaving one dead
A devastating tornado swept through the Val-d’Oise region, located north of Paris, on Monday, resulting in tragic consequences. The powerful storm claimed the life of a 23-year-old construction worker and caused significant destruction, including the collapse of three construction cranes. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the unpredictable and destructive nature of such natural phenomena. Emergency services swiftly responded to the scene, but the young worker could not be saved. Authorities are now assessing the extent of the damage and providing support to affected residents. This tragic event underscores the importance of preparedness and safety measures in the face of severe weather conditions.
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Guquan converter station undergoes 7-day annual overhaul in Anhui
The Guquan converter station, a critical component of the Changji-Guquan ultra-high voltage direct current (UHVDC) transmission line, has initiated its annual maintenance period. Located in Xuancheng, Anhui province, the station began its 7-day overhaul on October 17, 2025. This maintenance is essential for ensuring the continued efficiency and reliability of the power transmission system that delivers electricity from Xinjiang to East China. The Changji-Guquan transmission line, operational since September 2019, is globally recognized for its advanced voltage level, substantial transmission capacity, and extensive distance coverage. The maintenance work is being carried out by skilled staff members, who are meticulously inspecting and servicing the station’s infrastructure to prevent potential disruptions and maintain optimal performance. This annual overhaul underscores the importance of regular maintenance in sustaining the operational integrity of critical energy infrastructure.
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Gaza ceasefire after weekend violence allows humanitarian aid in again: UN
The United Nations has expressed relief as a fragile ceasefire in Gaza was reinstated following a weekend of renewed violence, allowing humanitarian aid to flow once more. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, representing Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, emphasized the importance of upholding the truce and protecting civilians. ‘We commend the mediators’ efforts and urge all parties to avoid actions that could reignite hostilities,’ Dujarric stated. He also reiterated calls for the release of deceased hostages’ remains. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported the successful distribution of food parcels to thousands of families in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis, marking a significant step in addressing Gaza’s dire needs. Additionally, Israeli authorities permitted UN monitors at the Kissufim crossing, enhancing oversight of aid delivery. UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher concluded his Gaza visit, witnessing UNICEF nutrition centers and UNDP road clearance projects. Fletcher later met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah to discuss Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, the 60-day aid scale-up plan, and the broader peace process. In Jerusalem, Fletcher convened with the UN humanitarian country team, including representatives from 200 NGOs. A $6.5 million contribution from Australia’s Minderoo Foundation was announced to support Gaza’s relief efforts. Meanwhile, in the West Bank, OCHA documented 71 settler attacks during the olive harvest season, highlighting ongoing tensions and violence.
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UAE: Jaw ache, fatigue? Doctors flag unusual symptoms of women’s heart attacks
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of death among women worldwide, responsible for nearly 30% of female fatalities—twice the number caused by cancer. Despite this, heart disease in women is often under-recognized, under-diagnosed, and under-treated, largely due to the misconception that it predominantly affects men. In the UAE, medical experts are highlighting the atypical symptoms women may experience during a heart attack, urging greater awareness and timely intervention.
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Three days to go: Charming Beijing, Shared with the World
With just three days remaining until a highly anticipated global event, Beijing is poised to captivate the world with its unique charm and cultural richness. The city, renowned for its blend of ancient heritage and modern innovation, is set to welcome visitors from across the globe. This event promises to highlight Beijing’s role as a cultural and economic hub, fostering international collaboration and mutual understanding. The countdown has sparked widespread excitement, with preparations in full swing to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for all participants. From showcasing its historical landmarks to highlighting contemporary achievements, Beijing aims to share its story with the world, reinforcing its position as a key player on the global stage.
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Japanese PM Ishiba’s cabinet resigns
In a significant political development, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and his cabinet officially resigned on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, bringing an end to an administration that had been in power for just over a year. The resignation took place during an extraordinary cabinet meeting held in Tokyo, where ministers submitted their formal letters of resignation. This move paves the way for the election of Japan’s next prime minister, with both chambers of the Diet set to convene later in the day. Sanae Takaichi, the president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), is widely anticipated to secure the position. Her candidacy is bolstered by the support of the Japan Innovation Party, which recently formed a coalition with the LDP following the withdrawal of Komeito from the alliance. Once elected, Takaichi is expected to finalize her cabinet appointments, with the chief cabinet secretary scheduled to announce the new lineup. Additionally, Takaichi plans to hold a press conference to outline her policy priorities and the rationale behind her key cabinet selections. This transition marks a pivotal moment in Japan’s political landscape, as the nation prepares for a new leadership era under Takaichi’s stewardship.
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Malawian president abolishes school fees, pledges to end hunger
In a landmark announcement, Malawi’s newly inaugurated President Peter Mutharika has unveiled sweeping reforms aimed at transforming the nation’s education and food security landscape. Speaking at an annual cultural festival in Thyolo District, Mutharika declared that primary and secondary education will be free for all Malawian students starting January 2026. The president emphasized the critical role of education in national development, urging parents and guardians to ensure every child attends school. ‘Parents will now have no excuse for failing to send their children to school. Education is the foundation of progress,’ Mutharika stated. Additionally, the president addressed the pressing issue of hunger, revealing that his government is securing 200,000 metric tons of maize from Zambia to assist over four million food-insecure citizens. Mutharika, who assumed office on October 4, 2025, following his victory in the September 16 presidential election, has prioritized these initiatives as part of his broader vision for a prosperous Malawi. The agriculture minister has been dispatched to Zambia to finalize the maize procurement deal, underscoring the administration’s commitment to alleviating hunger and fostering sustainable development.
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CityFly takes off as China’s newest travel trend in low-altitude tourism
China’s tourism landscape is soaring to new heights with the rise of ‘CityFly,’ a trend that is transforming how travelers experience the country. Moving beyond traditional sightseeing, this innovative approach embraces low-altitude activities such as paragliding, skydiving, and scenic helicopter rides, offering thrill-seekers a vertical perspective of urban and natural landscapes. Emerging as a successor to the popular ‘Citywalk’ trend, CityFly is rapidly gaining traction among young Chinese travelers, driven by the nation’s booming low-altitude economy. In Zhejiang province, for instance, paragliding has evolved from a niche adventure to a mainstream attraction. Li Duo, a Shanghai resident in her early 20s, described her first paragliding experience as ‘breathtaking,’ gliding over bamboo forests and tea gardens on Mogan Mountain. Yang Aiping, manager of the paragliding base, reported a tenfold increase in visitors since 2019, with over 100,000 participants this year. The trend is not limited to Zhejiang. In Sanya, Hainan province, skydiving has become a major draw, with a 20% year-on-year increase in customers during the first quarter of 2025. Official data reveals that Sanya’s low-altitude tourism sector served 287,000 tourists in the first half of 2024, generating 730 million yuan in revenue and creating 2,300 jobs. Zhao Yuehua, an aviation industry expert, attributes this surge to China’s rapidly developing low-altitude economy, which has reduced flight costs from 3,000 yuan per person a decade ago to around 1,000 yuan today. The sector’s growth has been further bolstered by its inclusion in the 2024 government work report, positioning it as a key economic driver. Projections indicate that the low-altitude economy will reach a market size of 1.5 trillion yuan by 2025 and expand to 3.5 trillion yuan by 2035. With 89,000 active enterprises in the sector, including 11,700 new registrations in the first five months of 2025, CityFly is reshaping China’s tourism industry, offering travelers a three-dimensional experience and injecting new vitality into the market.